Wilson’s Wisdom: Jury is out on loan signings

Paul Robinson was a loan hit before penning a permanent deal. Picture: Joe Pepler

Defenders Nyron Nosworthy and Cole Kpekawa joined up for the rest of the season to cover the injuries to Paul Robinson and Jack Whatmough.

There is no doubting Robinson has been an excellent addition – initially joining on loan from Millwall – and then signing up permanently in January.

I’d bet my mortgage it will be either him or Jed Wallace presented with The News’ player-of-the-season award in May.

But Andy Awford’s record in the loan market has not always been as successful this season.

Few managers get it right all the time, especially on loan deals when you can take more of a risk than with a permanent recruit.

In reality, any new signing is a risk, though. For every Jamie O’Hara or Andres D’Allesandro there is an Adam Reed or Frankie Sutherland.

The latest duo to arrive take the tally up to 11 temporary outfield recruits this season.

In a popular TV show from the 1960s (before my time, I hasten to add), guests declared the latest musical releases a hit or a miss.

Therefore, it’s time for some Pompey Juke Box Jury of our own (cue the music)...

Alex Wynter

Young central defender brought in from Crystal Palace. Asked to do a job at wing-back but never looked comfortable. Sent back in January before signing for Colchester.

Verdict: MISS

Miles Storey

Pacy forward signed from Swindon. Inconsistent but showed glimpses of real quality and was a touch unfortunate to be sent back. Now on loan at Newport. Hit

Paul Robinson

Quality, gutsy defender who is easily the biggest loan hit of the season. Great signing. Hit

Michael Drennan

Irish striker from Aston Villa returned for a second loan spell, started three games but failed to bring anything to the party. Now at Shamrock Rovers. MISS

Lee Holmes

Skilful Preston winger started just two games but failed to make an impression. Now on loan at Exeter City. MISS

Marcus Bean

Combative midfielder brought in from Colchester. Scored once and showed plenty of battling qualities but opted for a permanent move to Wycombe. Hit

Matt Fish

Gillingham right-back. Not up to the job. Now at Ebbsfleet. MISS

Paul McCallum

West Ham striker picked up a silly red card and a seven-match ban. Hardly seen him. MISS

Josh Passley

Speedy Fulham wing-back. Final ball often lets him down but has done a decent job. Hit

By my reckoning, the final tally reads five misses, four hits and two results to come.

Of course, others will disagree so feel free to join the jury and send your own results.